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5 Must-Do Activities In Ivory Coast For A Travel Bucket List

User By Jenna Jolie

Ivory Coast, also known as Cote d'Ivoire, is a country located in West Africa, known for its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant cities. In recent years, Ivory Coast has been a popular tourist destination for nature lovers and those curious about its rich history. Ivory Coast's true beauty really shines through when you visit the country. From pristine rainforests to vast churches with unique architecture, there is no shortage of top-rated attractions in Ivory Coast for tourists to uncover. Downtown Abidjan has a somewhat modern feel thanks to the gleaming skyscrapers and well-kept gardens of the Plateau, which have earned it the moniker "Manhattan of Africa." Let’s dive into this fascinating country through these top things to do in Ivory Coast.

Top 5 Must-Do Activities On Your Journey To Ivory Coast

Immersing in the modern life in Treichville, Abidjan

Treichville is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood in the city of Abidjan, Ivory Coast. Known for its lively markets and street vendors, Treichville is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the local culture and cuisine. In Treichville, you can explore various markets, including the Marché de Treichville, where fresh produce, traditional handicrafts, and souvenirs are sold. If you think going to markets is tedious, there are fancy restaurants and clubs to visit. Treichville is the hub for nightlife in Abidjan, where you can find several bars and other entertainment venues. 

Chilling out on Bassam beach

Grand Bassam is a UNESCO World Heritage site owing to the richness of its crumbling colonial architecture and urban planning. A trip to this stretch of coastline won't let you down if you are finding a place to unwind and get rid of all the burdens of your daily life. Enjoy the sunshine hitting your skin at Grand Bassam Beach and watch the sky transform with colors as the sun begins to set are the most unforgettable experiences here. Additionally, Bassam Beach is also equipped with many facilities, including luxurious hotels and fancy restaurants that serve both local dishes and Western food. There are plenty more places to explore in the vicinity, including Grand Bassam Lighthouse, National Costume Museum, and Palais de Justice.

Chilling out on Bassam beach is one of the top things to do in Ivory Coast

Chilling out on Bassam beach is one of the top things to do in Ivory Coast

Wandering around the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace

If you are fortunate enough to visit Yamoussoukro, the Ivory Coast's capital, you should not miss visiting the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace. This place is known as the largest Catholic religious building in the world, drawing large numbers of visitors worldwide yearly. 

The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, an architectural masterpiece in Ivory Coast, was completed in 1989 and modeled after Vatican's St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. The church's interior is embellished with stunning stained glass windows and artwork, while the outside is composed of marble. The basilica is a striking structure with a dome that rises more than 500 feet and the number of seats of over 18,000 people. When touring the basilica, you can marvel at the magnificence of the architecture and design and learn about the significance of this famous site in the Ivory Coast.

Wandering around the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace

Wandering around the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace

Admiring the futuristic architecture of St. Paul's Cathedral

In the city of Abidjan, Ivory Coast, there is a Roman Catholic cathedral called Saint Paul's Cathedral. It was constructed in 1985 and has been a top-rated attraction in Abidjan for its unique design. The first President of Ivory Coast, Félix Houphout-Boigny, commissioned Italian architect Aldo Spirito to create the cathedral as the artistic driving force behind his ambitious proposal to construct a top-notch church.

The architecture of the Church of St. Paul is a blend of uniqueness and modernity, though it is built to meet the specific aspirations of the ethnic people of Ivory Coast. Visitors are in awe of the unusual, futuristic building's size and shape, as well as its singular design. The walls surrounding the tower were filled with vivid colors and carved biblical scenes. In addition to having a Biblical theme, the cathedral's artwork places a particular emphasis on the Ivorian people's Christian religion. Without a doubt, visiting St. Paul's Cathedral is among the best things to do in Ivory Coast, which brings you a sense of satisfaction in admiring its creative architectural design. 

Seeing Animals in Assagny National Park

Driving about 100 kilometers from Abidjan, you can reach Azagny National Park. The 19,400-hectare park in the south of Ivory Coast was established in 1981 and is home to many unique animals and plant species. The vegetation in Azagny National Park is primarily swampy savannah because it is about 60% submerged in water. Elephants, bush pigs, buffaloes, monkeys (Chimpanzee Islands), several bird species, and many tree types can all be found in the national park. Boat rides are permitted on the navigable Azagny Canal, which is also equipped with Miradors that provide beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Seeing animals in Assagny National Park, Ivory Coast

Seeing animals in Assagny National Park, Ivory Coast

Essential Things To Prepare For Your Ivory Coast Trip

To ensure your trip to Ivory Coast is perfect, you should make a list of essential things to prepare. You can refer to our suggestion on a pre-trip checklist to make sure everything gets done the day before you travel.

  • Visa and passport are the most important documents for a trip abroad: You'll need a valid passport and a visa to enter Ivory Coast. Regarding your passport, please make sure it is valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay. For the visa, An Ivory Coast visa can be obtained easily online thanks to the introduction of the electronic visa system. You should check visa requirements in advance to know what you need to prepare to apply for an Ivory Coast e visa. 
  • Travel Insurance: It's always a good idea to have travel insurance, especially when traveling to a foreign country. Make sure your insurance policy covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and any other unforeseen events. This Travel insurance is available at Ivory Coast Immigration Services, which you can purchase in a matter of minutes with just a click. 
  • Currency: The official currency in Ivory Coast is the West African CFA franc. It's a good idea to exchange some money before you leave or withdraw cash from an ATM when you arrive.
  • Language: French is the official language of the Ivory Coast. While some locals may speak English, it's best to learn some basic French phrases to communicate with them if needed. 
  • Safety: Ivory Coast is generally a safe country to visit, but it's always important to take precautions, especially when traveling alone. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, and keep your valuables out of sight.
  • Local Customs: Ivory Coast has a rich cultural heritage, and it's important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, dress modestly, and avoid public displays of affection.

Essential things to prepare for an Ivory Coast trip

Essential things to prepare for an Ivory Coast trip

Ivory Coast is worth a trip if you are arranging a trip to West Africa. Whether you're lounging on Grand Bassam's beaches, exploring Abidjan's vibrant markets, or discovering one of the largest churches in the world, Ivory Coast has something to offer. So, pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in this beautiful country. Ivory Coast Immigration Services will accompany you on your journey!

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